The lasso he took back with him to the corner and looped the noose over the spur of rock.
"Ring--Whitie--come," he called, softly.
Low whines came up from below.
"Here! Come, Whitie--Ring," he repeated, this time sharply.
Then followed scraping of claws and pattering of feet; and out of the gray gloom below him swiftly climbed the dogs to reach his side and pass beyond.
Venters descended, holding to the lasso.

He tested its strength by throwing all his weight upon it.

Then he gathered the girl up, and, holding her securely in his left arm, he began to climb, at every few steps jerking his right hand upward along the lasso.

It sagged at each forward movement he made, but he balanced himself lightly during the interval when he lacked the support of a taut rope.

He climbed as if he had wings, the strength of a giant, and knew not the sense of fear.